Cognita Schools
Deputy Head – Strategy and Innovation
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Alleyn's Hampstead Nursery & Junior Cognita
Alleyn's Hampstead Nursery & Junior Cognita has formed a partnership with the Alleyn’s Schools Group to establish two leading independent day schools in north London. This pioneering collaboration brings together one of the world’s most influential education groups, Cognita, which educates over 100,000 students across 20 countries, and Alleyn’s, south London’s finest co-educational day school and Co-educational School of the Year 2025.
As part of this partnership, North Bridge House Regent’s Park Prep and North Bridge House Hampstead have become Alleyn’s schools. Alleyn’s Regent’s Park successfully transitioned in September 2025, welcoming pupils aged 3–11. Alleyn’s Hampstead followed in September 2026, offering an exceptional education for pupils aged 2–18 and bringing the distinctive Alleyn’s ethos of academic excellence, creativity, and care to north London.
Due to internal movement, the school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Deputy Head – Strategy and Innovation to join our fantastic team.
About the Role
The Deputy Head (Strategy & Innovation) will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of the school, leading the development and delivery of a forward-thinking educational vision that reflects the values of the Alleyn’s Partnership and the Alleyn’s Playbook. Working closely with the Head and Senior Leadership Team, you will drive innovation across teaching, learning, technology and school culture, ensuring students are equipped with the skills, knowledge and mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The role will lead curriculum innovation, champion teaching excellence and oversee the school’s digital and AI strategy, embedding ethical and impactful approaches to educational technology. You will also build strong partnerships across the Alleyn’s Schools Group, Cognita network and wider community, while identifying new opportunities for growth, collaboration and enhanced educational outcomes. As a key member of the senior leadership team, you will help foster a culture of continuous improvement, creativity and ambition across the school.
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Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking an inspiring and forward-thinking educational leader with a strong track record of delivering outstanding teaching, learning and pastoral outcomes. The successful candidate will hold Qualified Teacher Status and bring significant leadership experience, a deep understanding of curriculum development and safeguarding, and the ability to drive innovation and continuous improvement across a school community. With excellent communication and relationship-building skills, they will be able to engage confidently with pupils, parents, staff and external partners, influencing others through a collaborative and authentic leadership style. They will be approachable, resilient and emotionally intelligent, with the integrity and judgement to make difficult decisions when required. Energetic, adaptable and committed to lifelong learning, they will be passionate about educational excellence, embrace innovation, and share Alleyn’s values and ambition for the future.
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Benefits at Cognita
- Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
- Teacher’s Pension
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- School holidays and public holidays
- School fee discount
- Exclusive third-party discounts
- Ongoing professional development
How to Apply and Key Dates
Complete this application before the closing date.
The Closing Date for Applications is:
Sunday 4th October 2026
Shortlisting Date:
Week commencing 5th of October 2026
Interviews:
Wednesday 14th of October 2026
Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
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